Which sunscreen can you use without niacinamide?

One option to look for

Vanicream Facial Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 combines daily moisturization with protection against UVA and UVB rays. Its sunscreen active is zinc oxide at 19.5%, and its inactive ingredients include glycerin, squalane and ceramides. Niacinamide does not appear in either ingredient list. Choose the exact SPF 30 facial moisturizer, rather than treating the brand name as an ingredient check for every Vanicream product.1

Vanicream describes the texture as lightweight and non greasy, and the formula is designed for sensitive skin. Expect possible white cast on some complexions: the brand acknowledges this in its FAQ despite describing the product elsewhere as absorbing without white residue. The FAQ also reports 40 minute water resistance testing, while the directions tell you to use water resistant sunscreen when swimming or sweating. Follow the directions on your package for those activities.1

How to check another sunscreen

Read the complete ingredient list, not just the sunscreen filters. On US sunscreen labels, active ingredients provide UV protection; inactive ingredients are the other components of the formula. The front of a sunscreen bottle can introduce the product, but the ingredient list has to handle the awkward questions.3

For example, the US Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Face Drops SPF 50 lists zinc oxide at 12% as its active ingredient, but also lists niacinamide among its inactive ingredients. It is not an option if your aim is to avoid niacinamide. That applies to this exact face drops formula, not every Cetaphil sunscreen.2

What else should the label have?

Look for SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum protection and water resistance alongside your ingredient check. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays; SPF describes protection against sunburn. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are recommended for sensitive skin.4

The FDA does not define "sensitive skin" on sunscreen labels, even if the packaging gives it a very official looking job title.4

For UK sunscreens, look for SPF 30 or higher and at least four star UVA protection. A UVA symbol inside a circle indicates that the sunscreen meets the EU standard for UVA protection.5

How to use your sunscreen

1. 1Apply before going outdoors. Vanicream's directions specify liberal application 15 minutes before sun exposure.
2. 2Use enough to cover exposed skin thoroughly. For the face, use at least one teaspoon; most adults need about one ounce to cover skin not covered by clothing.
3. 3Cover commonly missed areas, including the ears, neck, hands and tops of the feet. Avoid the eyes and mouth.
4. 4Reapply every two hours outdoors, and immediately after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Follow the package's water resistance directions.

Use sunscreen when going outdoors even for a short time, including cloudy days and winter. Add shade, protective clothing and a wide brimmed hat rather than relying on sunscreen alone.7

Keep the sunscreen usable

Keep the container out of excessive heat and direct sunlight. Discard sunscreen past its expiry date; without a printed date, discard it three years after purchase. If you do not know how old it is, replace it.3